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–+ servings
Beef Log
This savory Beef Log appetizer combines classic mid-century party fare with creamy and tangy ingredients. Featuring cream cheese, Parmesan, olives, horseradish, and dried beef, it’s a nostalgic spread or roll often served with crackers or cocktail rye. Ideal for holidays, game nights, or retro gatherings, the log can be shaped and chilled in advance for fuss-free serving. It’s bold, salty, and creamy, a crowd-pleaser that delivers flavor in every slice.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 65 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese (softened)
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated )
  • ¼ cup olives (chopped )
  • 2 tsp horseradish (optional, to taste)
  • 3 oz Dried Beef (slivered)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Mix Base

  • In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Parmesan, chopped olives, and horseradish (if using).
  • Mash and stir together with a fork until fully blended.

Step 2: Prepare Beef

  • Slice the dried beef into thin strips or slivers.
  • Add to the cream cheese mixture and mix until evenly distributed.
  • Note: The recipe creator advises not using the entire 3 oz if it seems like too much.

Step 3: Shape and Chill

  • Shape mixture into two smaller logs or one large ball/log.
  • Wrap tightly in waxed paper and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Tips

  • Roll the log in chopped parsley, nuts, or cracked pepper for texture.
  • Add minced green onions for extra flavor.
  • Increase horseradish for a spicier version.
  • Replace olives with pimentos or chopped pickles.
  • Form into a cheese ball instead of logs for easier scooping.
  • Add Worcestershire sauce for savory depth.
  • Use only part of the dried beef (as the card notes) for milder saltiness.
  • Serve with crackers, celery sticks, or baguette slices.
  • Mix in a dash of garlic powder for added aroma.
  • Chill before serving for firmer texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 65kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 185mgPotassium: 37mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 211IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 49mgIron: 0.2mg
Keyword cream cheese appetizer, dried beef cheese log, holiday appetizer, party log, retro food, vintage recipe
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